MAGAZINE

“India is an all-weather, strategic partner for France”

Indo-French bilateral relationship has gained significant momentum in recent years. Payal S. Kanwar, Secretary General of the Indo-French Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IFCCI), the nodal organisation mandated with advancing business collaborations between the two countries, shares her views on the strength of Indo-French trade relationship and how, going forward, the two nations will benefit from each other’s trade complementaries.

TDB: India and France have long been strong allies. Where does this relationship stand as of today?

Payal S. Kanwar (PSK): India and France first entered into a strategic partnership in 1998. Since then they have been working together in areas such as defence and aerospace, security, climate change and energy. The alliance between the two countries is built on trust, respect and mutual understanding. Both countries regularly consult each other on global matters keeping in mind their respective security interests.

Trade relations have progressed with the years. French corporations have been major investors in India which has made France one of the top investors in the country. More than 1,000 subsidiaries of French companies are active across 20 Indian cities, and these numbers are only set to grow in the coming times. However, it is my opinion that bilateral trade between the two countries has immense scope for further growth.

Both countries cherish and value each other as allies on the international stage. The state visit of H. E. President Emmanuel Macron to India further cements the Indo-French strategic partnership in areas of global importance.

TDB: Could you tell us a bit about the mandate and the nature of the activities being undertaken by IFCCI in India?